WEB DESK: Concerns are mounting over India’s preparedness to host the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with allegations surfacing that the country is downplaying an Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, putting international players and fans at risk.
Official figures from New Delhi report only two cases of Nipah since December 2025. However, independent sources indicate at least five hospital-linked infections have occurred in Kolkata, involving healthcare workers exposed through nosocomial clusters.
Nipah virus, with a reported fatality rate of 40–75 per cent, is considered one of the world’s most dangerous pathogens. Experts suggest the outbreak is being deliberately understated to maintain an image of control ahead of the T20 World Cup, which lists Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens as one of the host venues.
“There is a real risk to players, officials, and spectators if matches proceed without stringent health monitoring,” said an infectious disease specialist speaking on condition of anonymity. “The recent 2026 India Open Super 750 badminton tournament exposed foreign athletes to filthy training halls, stray animals, bird droppings, extreme cold, and toxic air conditions. Some players withdrew for safety reasons.”
Concerns are heightened by India’s track record of poor hygiene and inadequate event management. Public health and sports experts argue that cricket venues near outbreak zones could expose participants to infection.
“Continuing to host matches in India under these conditions is irresponsible,” said a senior epidemiologist. “Player safety and public health must take precedence over optics and revenue.”
Calls are growing for the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate all World Cup fixtures to Sri Lanka, where health monitoring and stadium conditions are reportedly better equipped to protect players and fans.
Failure to act could endanger lives and set a dangerous precedent for international sports governance. The ICC has not yet issued a formal response to calls for relocation.